The information contained on this page is provided as general health information and is not intended to substitute as medical advice and direction from your physician or health care provider. Please direct any questions related to your health care provider. In an emergency, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency center.

Alternative Names

Causes

Cystitis is caused by germs, most often bacteria. These germs enter the urethra and then the bladder and can cause an infection. The infection commonly develops in the bladder. It can also spread to the kidneys.

Most of the time, your body can get rid of these bacteria when you urinate. But, the bacteria can stick to the wall of the urethra or bladder, or grow so fast that some stay in the bladder.

Women tend to get infections more often than men. This happens because their urethra is shorter and closer to the anus. Women are more likely to get an infection after sexual intercourse. Using a diaphragm for birth control can also be a cause. Menopause also increases the risk for a urinary tract infection.

Staying still (immobile) for a long period of time (for example, when you are recovering from a hip fracture)

Most cases are caused by Escherichia coli (E coli). It is a type of bacteria found in the intestines.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a bladder infection include:

Cloudy or bloody urine

Strong or foul smelling urine

Low fever (not everyone will have a fever)

Pain or burning with urination

Pressure or cramping in the lower middle abdomen or back

Strong need to urinate often, even right after the bladder has been emptied

Often in an older person, mental changes or confusion are the only signs of a possible infection.

Exams and Tests

In most cases, a urine sample is collected to do the following tests:

Urinalysis. This test is done to look for white blood cells, red blood cells, bacteria, and to check for certain chemicals, such as nitrites in the urine. Most of the time, your health care provider can diagnose an infection using a urinalysis.

Urine culture. A clean catch urine sample may be needed. This test is done to identify the bacteria in the urine and decide on the correct antibiotic.

Treatment

Antibiotics can be taken by mouth. These are most often given to stop the infection from spreading to the kidneys.

For a simple bladder infection, you will take antibiotics for 3 days (women) or 7 to 14 days (men). For a bladder infection with complications such as pregnancy or diabetes, or a mild kidney infection, you will most often take antibiotics for 7 to 14 days.

It is important that you finish all the antibiotics prescribed. Finish it even if you feel better before the end of your treatment. If you do not finish the antibiotics, you may develop an infection that is harder to treat.

Let your provider know if you are pregnant.

Your provider may prescribe medicines to ease discomfort. Phenazopyridine hydrochloride (Pyridium) is the most common of this type of drug. You will still need to take antibiotics.

Everyone with a bladder infection should drink plenty of water.

Some women have repeat bladder infections. Your provider may suggest treatments such as:

Taking a single dose of an antibiotic after sexual contact. These may prevent sexually transmitted infections.

Keeping a 3-day course of antibiotics. These will be given based on your symptoms.

Taking a single, daily dose of an antibiotic. This dose will prevent infections.

Over-the-counter products that increase acid in the urine, such as ascorbic acid or cranberry juice, may be recommended. These medicines lower the concentration of bacteria in the urine.

Follow-up may include urine cultures. These tests will make sure the bacterial infection is gone.